Jingdezhen Carp Gaiwan Set: The 1 Stunning Hand Painted Blue White Porcelain for Serene Tea

In the realm of Chinese ceramics, blue-and-white porcelain stands as a timeless masterpiece, and Jingdezhen is its sacred birthplace. Junxistea is proud to present the Jingdezhen Carp Gaiwan Set, a harmonious ensemble that marries centuries-old craftsmanship with the auspicious symbolism of the carp and lotus. This complete set includes a 110cc gaiwan, an 80cc pressure cup, and a generous round porcelain tea tray (approximately 50cm in diameter), all meticulously hand-painted by skilled artisans in Jingdezhen. The gaiwan measures 9.5cm in diameter and 8cm in height, perfect for brewing delicate teas. The pressure cup, with its 9.5cm diameter and 5cm height, offers a comfortable grip and an 80cc capacity ideal for savoring concentrated infusions. The round tray provides ample space for your tea ritual while catching any spills. The hand-painted design features graceful carp swimming among blooming lotus flowers – a classic Chinese motif symbolizing abundance, prosperity, and harmony. Every brushstroke is a testament to the artist’s skill, making this Hand Painted Blue White Porcelain not just a functional tool, but a work of art that will elevate your daily tea practice.

Jingdezhen Carp Gaiwan Set: The Story of Carp, Lotus, and Jingdezhen’s Millennia-Old Legacy

The carp (鱼, yú) holds a special place in Chinese culture. Its pronunciation is identical to the word for “abundance” (余), making it a powerful symbol of wealth and surplus. The image of a carp leaping over the Dragon Gate represents perseverance and success – a metaphor for overcoming obstacles and achieving greatness. The lotus (荷花, héhuā), rising pure from muddy waters, symbolizes purity, enlightenment, and rebirth. Together, the carp and lotus create a visual prayer for a life of prosperity, integrity, and spiritual growth. This motif has been a favorite in Chinese art for centuries, adorning everything from paintings to ceramics. Our Jingdezhen Carp Gaiwan Set continues this tradition, bringing these auspicious symbols onto your tea table. The cobalt blue pigment, derived from cobalt oxide, is applied by hand onto the unfired porcelain body. After glazing and high-temperature firing at over 1300°C, the blue transforms into a deep, lustrous hue that is permanently fused with the glaze. This process, perfected over a thousand years in Jingdezhen, produces the iconic “blue-and-white” effect that has captivated collectors worldwide. By owning this set, you are not just acquiring teaware – you are connecting with a living heritage that stretches back to the Tang Dynasty.

Jingdezhen Carp Gaiwan Set: The 7-Step Journey from Clay to Masterpiece

Creating a Jingdezhen Carp Gaiwan Set is a labor-intensive process that requires the collaboration of multiple specialists – from clay preparers to painters to kiln masters. Each step is performed with reverence for the material and the tradition.

1. Selecting and Purifying the Kaolin Clay: The foundation of fine porcelain is high-quality kaolin clay, sourced from the mines around Jingdezhen. The raw clay is crushed, washed, and filtered to remove impurities. It is then aged for months to improve plasticity and workability.

2. Throwing and Shaping (拉坯, Lā Pī): Skilled potters throw the clay on a spinning wheel to form the gaiwan body, lid, saucer, and the pressure cup. The round tea tray is formed using slab-building or wheel-throwing techniques. Each piece must be perfectly centered and thinned to achieve the desired wall thickness – thin enough to be translucent when held to light, yet sturdy enough for daily use.

3. Trimming and Refining (利坯, Lì Pī): Once the thrown pieces are leather-hard, they are removed from the wheel and trimmed to refine the shape. The foot ring is carved, the rim is smoothed, and any imperfections are corrected. This stage determines the final precision of the fit between the gaiwan lid and bowl.

4. Hand Painting the Carp and Lotus Design: This is the most critical and artistic step. A master painter uses a fine brush loaded with cobalt oxide pigment to freehand the carp, lotus, and water weeds onto the bisque-fired (or greenware) surface. The painter must work with confidence and speed, as the porous clay absorbs the pigment instantly, making corrections nearly impossible. The composition is carefully planned to flow around the curves of the gaiwan and cup.

5. Applying the Transparent Glaze: After the painting is complete, the pieces are dipped into a vat of clear glaze. The glaze covers the entire surface except for the foot ring. This glaze will protect the painting and give the porcelain its characteristic glossy, glass-like finish. The thickness of the glaze must be precisely controlled to avoid running or pooling during firing.

6. High-Temperature Firing in a Reduction Kiln: The glazed pieces are loaded into a gas or electric kiln and fired to temperatures between 1280°C and 1350°C in a reduction atmosphere (limited oxygen). This intense heat vitrifies the clay, melts the glaze into a glassy layer, and transforms the cobalt oxide into the deep, vibrant blue that defines blue-and-white porcelain. The firing cycle takes 12-24 hours, followed by a slow cooling period of another 12-24 hours.

7. Inspection and Quality Control: After cooling, each piece is examined for defects: cracks, pinholes, warping, or blurring of the painting. The fit of the gaiwan lid is tested. The color of the blue is evaluated for consistency and depth. Only pieces that meet the highest standards are paired together and packaged for sale. The result is a Chinese Fish Pattern Teaware set that is both beautiful and durable, ready to accompany you through countless tea sessions.

Jingdezhen Carp Gaiwan Set: A 4-Point Guide to Using and Caring for Your Set

1. Understanding the Components

Your Jingdezhen Carp Gaiwan Set consists of three main pieces: the gaiwan (covered bowl), the pressure cup (also called a “ya shou bei”), and the round tea tray. The gaiwan is used for brewing tea – simply add leaves, pour hot water, steep, and then decant the liquor into the pressure cup using the lid to hold back the leaves. The pressure cup is designed with a slightly flared rim that fits comfortably in the hand, allowing you to appreciate the tea’s color and aroma. The tray serves as a catchment for any spilled water or tea, keeping your table dry and organized.

2. First Use Preparation

Before using your new set for the first time, wash all pieces with warm water and a mild, non-abrasive detergent. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft cloth. Do not use a dishwasher, as the high heat and harsh detergents may damage the hand-painted design over time. For the gaiwan, you may optionally perform a “seasoning” brew by steeping a batch of tea and discarding it, though this is not strictly necessary for glazed porcelain.

3. Brewing Technique

Place the gaiwan on the tray. Add your preferred tea leaves (about 5-7 grams for a 110cc gaiwan). Pour hot water at the appropriate temperature for your tea type. Let it steep for the recommended time. Hold the gaiwan by its rim and lid knob, tilt it slightly, and pour the tea into the pressure cup through the gap between the lid and bowl. The lid acts as a filter, keeping leaves inside. Repeat for multiple infusions, adjusting steeping time as needed. The 110cc Gaiwan Cup will reveal the tea’s true color through its translucent glaze.

4. Cleaning and Maintenance

After use, rinse the gaiwan, cup, and tray with warm water. Avoid abrasive sponges or harsh chemicals that could scratch the glaze or fade the painting. For stubborn tea stains, soak in a solution of warm water and baking soda for 15 minutes, then rinse. Dry all pieces thoroughly before storing. Store in a safe place away from direct sunlight to preserve the vibrancy of the blue pigment. With proper care, this Round Porcelain Tea Tray and its companions will retain their beauty for generations.

5 Reasons Why the Jingdezhen Carp Gaiwan Set Is an Heirloom Investment

Authentic Jingdezhen Craftsmanship: Each piece is made in Jingdezhen, the “Porcelain Capital” of China, using traditional methods that have been refined over a millennium. The hand-painted carp and lotus design is executed by artists who have trained for years to master the fluid brushwork of blue-and-white painting.
Timeless Aesthetic Appeal: The classic blue-on-white color scheme is universally admired and complements any tea table décor, from minimalist modern to traditional Chinese. The fish motif adds a layer of cultural richness and positive symbolism.
Functional Excellence: The gaiwan’s 110cc capacity is ideal for Gongfu brewing, allowing precise control over steeping parameters. The pressure cup’s ergonomic design enhances the drinking experience. The spacious round tray accommodates spills and provides a stable surface for your tea ritual.
Complete Set Convenience: This set includes everything you need for a full tea ceremony – no additional purchases required. The coordinated design ensures visual harmony across all pieces.
Meaningful Gift Potential: Packaged in an elegant gift box, this set makes a profound present for weddings, housewarmings, birthdays, or corporate gifts. The fish and lotus symbolism conveys wishes for abundance, purity, and success.

Jingdezhen Carp Gaiwan Set: 3 Ways to Incorporate It Into Your Life

As Your Daily Gongfu Companion: Use this set for your morning or evening tea ritual. Its compact size is perfect for solo sessions or intimate gatherings. The hand-painted design will bring a sense of ceremony to even the simplest cup of tea.
As a Centerpiece for Tea Tastings: When hosting friends for a tea tasting, this set serves as both a functional tool and a conversation starter. The beautiful carp motif will intrigue guests and provide an opportunity to share the cultural significance of the design.
As a Decorative Display Piece: Even when not in use, the set can be displayed on a shelf, sideboard, or coffee table. The vibrant blue against the white porcelain creates a striking visual accent that enhances any room’s aesthetic.

More Than a Tea Set: A Connection to Chinese Culture

Junxistea’s Jingdezhen Carp Gaiwan Set is more than a collection of teaware; it is a portal to the rich cultural tapestry of China. Every time you brew with this set, you are participating in a tradition that has been cherished for centuries. The carp swimming upstream reminds you of the value of persistence. The lotus blooming in muddy water teaches you about purity and transcendence. The blue-and-white palette speaks of an aesthetic that values harmony, balance, and understated elegance. This set is an investment in beauty, meaning, and the daily practice of mindfulness. Let it be the vessel that carries you to a deeper appreciation of tea and life itself.

You have seen the beauty of blue-and-white. You have understood the symbolism of the carp and lotus. Now, make this set the heart of your tea ritual.

Click “Add to Cart” to welcome the Jingdezhen Carp Gaiwan Set into your home. Brew with intention, sip with gratitude. Free shipping is available on all orders.